By Sharon Frimpomaa Opoku
Youth champion Frederick Brooks is raising the alarm on the urgent need for tougher action against sexual harassment in Ghanaian universities.
His concerns follow a recent move by the University of Ghana, which punished 16 students and a lecturer for a range of offenses, including plagiarism, falsifying documents, and sexual misconduct.
A key case involved Dr. Sampson Obed Appiah, a lecturer found guilty of sexual misconduct. His penalties include a public apology, suspension for two semesters, limits on career advancement, and compulsory sexual harassment training.
Speaking exclusively on Dominion TV’s top show Wake Up Africa last Friday with host Korku Lumor, Brooks criticized the fairness of the disciplinary actions.
He highlighted a scenario where a postgrad student was suspended for two years over plagiarism, while a lecturer who committed sexual harassment got off with what he sees as a mild punishment.
“Nobody goes to jail for plagiarism, but sexual harassment can land you behind bars. The plagiarism penalty looks more like a slap on the wrist than a corrective measure,” he remarked.
Brooks called on universities nationwide to step up and establish a secure, judgment-free space for victims to report such incidents.
A UNICEF-Girls Excellent Movement report disclosed that 51.9% of senior high school girls suffered sexual assault between 2019 and 2021, aged 11 to 22. The offenders included teachers, peers, family, and friends.
Questioning the fairness of disciplinary actions, Brooks emphasized the differing treatment of students and lecturers.
While a postgrad student faced a two-year suspension for plagiarism, the lecturer guilty of sexual harassment received a less severe penalty, prompting his appeal for bold actions by universities to handle such cases and foster a stigma-free reporting environment for victims.
Sexual harassment in Ghana’s universities demands immediate attention. By addressing this issue head-on, universities can cultivate a safer environment for both students and faculty.
The time for action is now. Dominion TV’s Wake Up Africa morning show stands out as Ghana’s leading breakfast television program, hosted by the dynamic duo Korku Lumor and Precious Bia Dela.
This innovative show is reshaping how Ghanaians and Africans kick off their day by sparking meaningful conversations on current affairs, health, fitness, entertainment, and more.
Tune in on weekdays from 6:30 am to 10:00 am GMT to celebrate Ghanaian and African culture, values, and talent.